Arctic sailing voyages, around Spitsbergen

Planet

We work hard to protect and conserve the destinations we visit around the world and the fragile Arctic ecosystem is no exception. In protecting the Arctic and instilling a sense of environmental stewardship in our clients, we employ a range of successful methods and initiatives.

All of our Arctic trips operate under the policies of the Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators (AECO) and we endeavour to deliver ‘respectable, environmentally-friendly and safe expeditions in the Arctic’. In working with AECO, we help ensure that our trips are carried out with the utmost consideration for the vulnerable natural environment, all local cultures and the valuable cultural sites.

Our polar trips are also made under the full membership of the International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators (IAATO) and as such, we abide by their strict codes of conduct in both the Antarctic and the Arctic. Encounters with polar bears, walruses and whales are controlled by strict responsible codes of conduct.

Whilst on Svalbard, we actively help the fragile ecosystem there by participating in the ‘Clean up Svalbard’ programme. This interactive initiative has achieved a positive result in making tangible differences to the Arctic environment and its wildlife. Already, the ‘Clean up Svalbard’ programme has seen several thousand tons of rubbish being removed from the shores of the archipelago.

Whilst on these trips, your-on board natural history expert, through guided walks and evening talks, reveals not only the wonders of the Arctic realm and its wildlife but also some of the conservation issues which this fragile habitat and its species face.

Finally, by sailing around Svalbard, we harness the power of the wind; not only allowing passengers to enjoy quiet and unobtrusive travel but reducing the use of engine power (and thus diesel usage) also. The deck of a strong and elegant sailing ship is an appropriate and inspiring way to enjoy the serenity and stunning beauty of the High Arctic wilderness, by environmentally-aware means.

People

Some voyages we offer are so remote that there is no indigenous village / community, such as Spitsbergen.

However, before embarking on their expedition cruises in Longyearbyen, we encourage clients to stay at locally run boutique hotels rather than chain hotels, eat in local restaurants, buy souvenirs in the local shops and partake in organised day trips, which are run by local guides. We also organise multi-day trips within Spitsbergen, where clients can extend their travel by booking one of our land based Summer Adventure Expeditions.

There are further opportunities during some shore landings to purchase souvenirs from shops, such as Ny-Ålesund, which is a scientific research community.

Our office based travel team have more than 70 years combined polar travel planning knowledge and experience. We work closely with our business and charity partners throughout the World.

Our overall commitment to the environment is also reflected within our office environment. We source office supplies from local retailers, use recycled/FSC stationary where possible and recycle office waste. We are also mindful of the amount of documents printed in the office and utilise digital documents and literature when possible. This also includes company filing.